Ore. House expands low-emission truck loans

A bill to reduce heavy truck emissions in areas with high levels of air pollution passed the Oregon House Monday.

HB 4107, introduced by House Speaker Tina Kotek (D-Portland) and carried on the floor by Rep. Cliff Bentz (R-Ontario) would expand the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Revolving Fund to allow businesses in areas with high air pollution levels to access the loan program.

The fund is a loan program that helps organizations to purchase or convert engines to run on alternative fuels with lower emissions.

“Providing new tools for companies to reduce air pollution and diversifying our transportation sector are important for Oregon,” said Kotek, who sponsored the bill to address pollution in north Portland and around the state. “This will create jobs while lowering greenhouse gas emissions and other pollution.”

In 2013, the Legislature passed SB 583, establishing the Alternative Vehicle Revolving Fund for public entities in order to help reduce vehicle emission by financing the conversion or purchase of alternative fuel vehicles.

HB 4107 expands the fund, focusing on private entities based in regions that must participate in the State Vehicle Inspection Program.

This and other sideboards will ensure HB 4107 is put to use in areas with the most need for emissions reductions while keeping the revolving loan fund solvent, the lawmakers said.